The Best Travel Shoes for Kids: Tested by Our Two World Explorers
After one too many stubbed toes, lost sandals, and “Moooom, my feet hurt!” meltdowns in the middle of ancient ruins, I learned the hard way: not all kid shoes are made for travel.
As a mom who’s schlepped car seats and cranky toddlers through airports, chased preschoolers through mountain trails, and pushed a stroller over approximately one million cobblestones — I’ve tested a lot of shoes. Mud, volcano ash, puddles in Paris, and mystery liquids in airport bathrooms — we’ve seen it all.
And here’s the truth: the best travel shoes for kids aren’t just about cute colors or brand names. They’re the shoes that keep your child upright on uneven streets, comfy during long days, and meltdown-free (well, at least shoe-related meltdowns).
Whether you’re planning a big international trip or just want solid shoes for everyday adventures, here’s what I look for in travel shoes for kids — plus the top pairs our family actually uses (and loves) on the road.
What to Look for in Kid Travel Shoes
- Durability – If your kiddo likes to drag their toes, kick up dust (literally my biggest pet peeve!) or stomp through puddles, cheap canvas won’t cut it.
- Easy On/Off – You don’t want to wrestle with laces at airport security or temple entrances.
- Closed-Toe Protection – Cobblestone, sticks, and escalators are not sandal-friendly.
- Breathability – Sweaty feet = cranky toddler.
- Versatility – Can they wear them to a museum and then on a dusty hike?
Top Picks: Best Travel Shoes for Kids
Whether you’re navigating bumpy alleys in Spain, temple steps in Thailand, or the cracked sidewalks of your own neighborhood — these are the kid shoes that have actually held up in the chaos.
1. See Kai Run The MVPs of Our Travel Days
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ FEATURE: Flexible, grippy soles | ✅ Buy it!
If I could only pack one pair of shoes for my kids, See Kai Run sneakers would be it. These were absolute lifesavers on our trip to Antigua — their flexible-but-sturdy soles handled cobblestone streets without a single complaint (from me or my toddler) and transition well to adventures, like climbing Pacaya Volcano.
They’re breathable enough for hot, sticky days, but still durable enough for playground detours and unexpected hikes.
What I really love: There are tons of great options for different ages and needs — from soft first walkers to sturdier sneakers for active young kids. Whether you need something neutral for hand-me-downs or a pair that holds up to daily wear and travel chaos, See Kai Run has you covered. We really love the Riley sneakers!
Best for: Full days of walking, exploring cities, museums, airports, and basically anything that involves moving.
Heads up: They’re not waterproof, so maybe skip puddle-jumping or pair with backup socks on rainy days.
Grab a pair of See Kai Run sneakers here — your kid’s feet (and your travel plans) will thank you.
2. Stride Rite : Built For High Energy Play
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ FEATURE: Built tough | ✅ Buy it!
What I really love: If your kid is the kind who can turn a quiet stroll into an obstacle course, Stride Rite is your hero. These shoes are basically indestructible — machine washable, Velcro-everything, and quick-drying enough to survive impromptu fountain splashes or surprise beach detours.
Ours powered through a month of hilly Hobbit theme parks, tuk-tuk rides, and muddy macadamia farms, without missing a beat. They’re made for kids who treat travel like a sport (and for parents who don’t have time to hand-scrub tiny sneakers at the end of every day).
Best for: High-energy kids who go from jungle gym to dinner table without slowing down.
Heads up: They’re a bit bulkier than minimalist shoes, so if you’re tight on suitcase space, plan accordingly.
Snag a pair of Stride Rites here — because travel with toddlers is wild enough without flimsy shoes.
3. Crocs: Ultimate Easy On, Easy Off
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ FEATURE: Slip-on convenience| ✅ Buy it!
I have to admit — we were skeptics about Crocs, but after traveling with them, they’ve become a must-have in our suitcase. Lightweight and super easy to rinse off after muddy hikes or sandy beach days, these shoes double as perfect pool shoes, too.
Bonus: My 1.5 year old can put them on all by himself — a game-changer when you’re juggling backpacks, snacks, and sunscreen application while just trying to get out the door.
Best for: Beach trips, splash pads, airports — basically any “easy day” when you want quick slip-ons without the fuss.
Heads up: They’re not built for long walking days or rough, rocky trails. I’ve also noticed my kids’ feet get sweaty and slippery when they wear these for long periods of time. Save them for downtime and splash-friendly adventures.
Shop Crocs for kids here — perfect for fuss-free, splash-ready adventures!
4. Barefoot Kids Sneakers
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ FEATURE: Natural Movement | ✅ Buy it!
Why we love it:
Barefoot shoes are game-changers for developing feet. These encourage natural movement and balance, especially on uneven ground. Our big kid wore them for hours exploring ruins in Guatemala — no complaints, and his footing was rock solid.
Best for:
Parents who care about foot development, balance, and minimalist packing.
Downside:
Takes some getting used to for kids switching from bulky shoes.
Explore barefoot shoes here — let your toddler move naturally wherever your travels take you!
Final Thoughts: Little Feet, Big Adventures
Finding the right kids shoes for travel isn’t just about cute styles or trendy brands — it’s about setting your kids up to explore confidently, safely, and comfortably.
The pairs we’ve listed here have carried our family through airport sprints, rainy market stalls, mountain villages, and beach days. And through it all, what mattered most was that our kids were comfortable enough to keep going.
Because when their feet are happy, they’re more likely to engage, connect, and soak up the world around them.
And that’s what this season of life is all about — raising curious, resilient little humans who walk (and sometimes run, skip, or stomp) toward the unknown with wonder.
